Newsroom
Turkish Cypriot teachers in the government-controlled area of Cyprus are voicing their frustration over delayed salaries, diminished social rights, and lack of support from their unions. Teachers report repeated delays in salary payments, including the non-payment of the 13th salary, and a shift from permanent to temporary "service contracts," leaving them without job security or adequate benefits.
The teachers also faced discrimination when they were blocked from participating in a recent "Peace March," despite being invited. Greek Cypriot authorities and the OELMEK teachers' union prevented them from boarding buses for the event, calling the exclusion "marginalizing and fascist."
Frustrated by a lack of action from the Cyprus Turkish Secondary Education Teachers Union (KTOEOS), the educators are calling for stronger advocacy for their rights. Many believe the union’s inaction stems from political considerations, prioritizing relations with the Greek Cypriot side over defending Turkish Cypriot teachers.
The teachers are demanding immediate action, including timely salary payments, job security, and active support from their unions. They also seek intervention from international organizations to address ongoing discrimination in the education sector.
With information from Cyprus Mirror.
